Program Priorities

The Center for Animal Welfare collaborates with other animal welfare entities to play a central role in USDA’s efforts to build partnerships domestically and internationally, improve regulatory practices, and reach beyond USDA’s traditional regulatory role to develop outreach, training and educational resources.

The Animal Welfare Act establishes requirements concerning the transportation, sale, and handling of certain animals and includes restrictions on the importation of dogs for purposes of resale, prohibitions on animal fighting ventures, and provisions intended to prevent the theft of personal pets.

USDA Animal Care’s emergency response component provides national leadership on the safety and well-being of pets during disasters – with the understanding that supporting animal safety during emergencies is a significant factor in ensuring the well-being of pet owners.

The Horse Protection Act and its associated regulations seek to put an end to soring (a procedure in which horses are subjected to chemical and/or mechanical irritants in order to enhance their gait) by preventing sored horses from participating in exhibitions, shows, sales, or auctions.